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Finding Basque history in the trees of Idaho

A picture of an arborglyph found in a forest.
John Bieter

Throughout Idaho, there is a rich history of Basque culture, a piece of which can be found in many of the forests across Idaho in the form of tree carvings.

Known as arborglyphs, these markings were commonly left by sheepherders, providing a glimpse into the past of an often overlooked population. And for years now, Boise State University professor John Bieter has made it a priority to document these fading artifacts.

Bieter joined Idaho Matters to talk more about this work and the significance of arborglyphs.

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Hannah Gardoski was the Idaho Matters Assistant Producer from 2022-2026.

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